Potty training a German Shepherd puppy is key to living a happy and comfortable life with your furry friend. And trust me, you don’t want those accidents happening all over your house! So, let’s get down to business and learn how to potty train your German Shepherd pup like a pro.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Potty Training Your German Shepherd Puppy
Potty training your German Shepherd puppy can be a challenging task, but with the right approach and consistency, you can make it a breeze. So, let’s jump right into the step-by-step instructions to get your furry friend on the right track!
- Prevention is Key: Set a schedule and stick to it! Take your puppy outside every 2 to 3 hours to prevent accidents indoors. Make sure to keep an eye on their body language and take them out immediately if you notice any signs of needing to go.
- Supervise, Supervise, Supervise: Don’t leave your pup unsupervised to roam freely in your home. Keep an eye on them at all times, especially when they are not in their designated potty area. This will help you catch any accidents before they happen.
- Create a Designated Potty Area: Choose a specific spot in your yard where you want your puppy to do their business. Take them to this spot consistently to establish a routine and reinforce the idea that this is where they should go.
- Positive Reinforcement: When your pup does their business in the designated area, praise them and give them treats or verbal rewards. Positive reinforcement goes a long way in reinforcing good behavior and making potty training a positive experience for your German Shepherd.
- Clean up Accidents Properly: If accidents happen indoors, clean them up promptly and thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner. This will help eliminate any lingering smells that might attract your puppy to go in the same spot again.
- Consistency is Key: Stick to your potty training routine and be patient. It might take some time for your German Shepherd to fully grasp the concept, but with consistency and positive reinforcement, they will get there.
- Adjust Feeding Schedule: Pay attention to your puppy’s feeding schedule and adjust it accordingly. By establishing a regular feeding routine, you can predict when they will need to go potty and take them outside at the right times.
How often does a German Shepherd need to poo?
If you have a young pup, you better buckle up because they have tiny bladders and bowels that can’t hold it for long. They will need to relieve themselves more frequently, usually every 2 to 3 hours. That means you’ll be making 8 to 10 trips outside every single day. But hey, it’s all part of the potty training process, and it’ll pay off in the long run.
As your German Shepherd grows older, their bladder and bowel control will improve. You can start increasing the time between potty breaks by an hour at a time. By the time they reach the age of 6 months, they can usually hold it for longer periods. So, expect them to need to poo around 3 to 4 times a day.
What repels dogs from peeing inside?
Dogs have a super-sensitive nose, and certain scents can actually repel them from peeing in certain areas. One popular option is vinegar. Yup, that’s right, good old vinegar. Mix equal parts water and vinegar and spray it on the spots where your pup has had accidents. The strong smell will deter them from peeing there again. Just be careful not to use vinegar on surfaces that can be damaged by it.
Another scent that dogs tend to dislike is citrus. You can use lemon or orange peels, or even citrus-scented sprays, to keep your furry friend away from areas where they shouldn’t be peeing. Dogs have a natural aversion to citrus, so it’s worth giving it a try.
And finally, let’s not forget the power of nature. If you have a garden or yard, consider planting some dog-repellent plants like lavender, rosemary, or marigold. These plants not only add a touch of beauty to your space but also emit scents that dogs aren’t particularly fond of. Plus, they’ll make your garden smell delightful for you and your human guests.
